Mazda Taiki

Here’s proof that Mazda is looking to outer space for its next sports car. This amazing machine is called the Taiki – and it takes its name from the Japanese word for ‘atmosphere’.

Making its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, the newcomer points to the look of a future replacement for the RX-8. And it follows on from the first glimpse Auto Express gave you of the stunning coupé last week.

Now, we can reveal the first official pictures. And, as you can see, it draws on the Mazda Kabura concept, which debuted at the Detroit expo in January this year, with a slippery new aerodynamic shape that incorporates a host of neat details. At the front, the grille features sweeping vanes, while the vast wheelarches sit proud of the body and are filled by enormous, dramatic alloys. Instead of a conventional glass windscreen, there is a jet fighter-style canopy, too.

It’s at the rear that the Taiki gets really wild, however, as the body tap­ers in to make a catamaran-style hull. Sweeping panels cover the wheels, and with aerodynamic tunnels helping to channel airflow to the tail, drag is kept to a minimum.

As well as previewing the RX-8, the Taiki showcases the company’s eco credentials. The rear tyres are ultra-narrow – reducing rolling resistance – and are driven by a revised edition of Mazda’s Renesis rotary engine, which is most likely to be powered by hydro­gen. Further details will be revealed prior to the global launch in Tokyo, where Mazda is also likely to unveil an updated version of its hydrogen-powered Premacy MPV. This technology is expected to debut on the firm’s 5 compact people carrier in Europe some time in the next few years.